slovenia

12 days/11 nights: August 20-31, 2026

Book by December 20 and save $300 with EARLYPAY coupon

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Detour with Sašo

Slovenia isn’t just a destination to me—it’s my home, where every mountain peak and winding river feels like part of my story. From the heart of Ljubljana, where Jože Plečnik’s architecture shapes the city, to the ancient streets of Ptuj, every corner holds a memory. The rolling hills of the Karst region and the secrets tucked away in the Postojna Caves have been part of my life, as familiar as the taste of a glass of local wine. Lake Bled’s iconic island has always been my refuge. This journey isn’t just a tour—it's my Slovenia, a place that will always call me back.

A man with short dark hair and a beard, wearing a blue jacket, making a peace sign with his fingers in an urban setting with classical buildings in the background.

highlights include

  • Explore the medieval charm of Ptuj

  • Marvel at Postojna Caves and Predjama Castle

  • Cozy up with the famous Lipizzaner horses

  • Savor the Karst’s best orange wines

  • Unwind on the Adriatic in photogenic Piran

  • Cross the Julian Alps and hike in Triglav National Park

  • Visit the legendary Planica Ski Jumping Centre

  • Soak up the meditative beaty of Lake Bled

Aerial view of a turquoise river flowing through a rocky landscape with green trees on the banks.

itinerary

Map of Slovenia showing travel routes between towns and cities. Piran is in the southwest, Lipica east of Piran, Ljubljana in the center, Bovec in the northwest, Lake Bled north of Ljubljana, Ptuj in the northeast, with arrows indicating travel paths and red stars marking locations.
“The beauty of Slovenia, like the poetry of life, is not in the grand gestures but in the quiet corners, the serene lakes, and the peaceful villages that dot the landscape.”
— Tina Vrščaj

Slovenia is as diverse as it is captivating, with the towering Alps sliding into the shimmering Adriatic and hidden caves sheltering centuries of secrets.. From the architectural wonders of Ljubljana to the medieval charm of Ptuj, we’ll discover ancient towns, savor delicious regional delicacies, and immerse ourselves in the lively spirit of the Kurent carnival. We’ll venture deep into the mystical Postojna Caves, witness the elegance of Lipizzaner horses, and indulge in orange wine from the picturesque Karst region. Our journey will conclude at the stunning Lake Bled, where both the landscape and the rich stories will leave an unforgettable impression.

  • Colorful beehives on a wooden stand with bees flying around, set in a grassy outdoor area.
  • A historic church tower with a red and white facade, topped with a dark spire, is seen under a partly cloudy sky. A leafless tree leans toward the tower, and a small statue of a person stands on a stone pedestal in the foreground. Two people walk on a path to the right.
  • A woman with long blonde hair in braids, smiling and holding a loaf of bread on a wooden cutting board in a cozy, wood-paneled kitchen.
  • A garden with blooming flowers and plants in front of an old stone castle wall with square windows, under a partly cloudy sky.
  • A scenic view of a seaside town with colorful buildings along a rocky shoreline, a historic tower, and a bright blue sky.
  • Colorful narrow street with pastel buildings, flowers, outdoor seating, and laundry hanging between buildings.
  • A scenic view of a church on a hill by a lake, with snow-capped mountains in the background and a clear blue sky.
  • A woman with short blonde hair smiles while hugging a large, traditional European costume character with a long beak, big white eyes, and a fluffy body, in a cluttered room with costume accessories and framed artwork on the wall.
  • Close-up of a wooden serving board with a green macaroon, pumpkin seeds, and a piece of chocolate. Blurred background with additional assorted snacks.
  • A woman walking a white horse on a gravel path outside a yellow building.
  • A man sitting at a pottery wheel creating a ceramic piece, with a wheel and clay in front of him, on a pink table. The wall behind him has numerous handprints and signatures in various colors.
  • Soca river flowing through mountains in Slovenia.
  • A castle with a red conical roof and white walls atop a green hillside under a bright blue sky with white clouds.
  • A castle built into the side of a rocky hillside with trees and a bright blue sky in the background.
  • A pink historic church with green spires situated beside a river, with a weeping willow tree hanging over the water, under a cloudy sky.
  • A table set with various dishes including a bowl of potato salad, a plate of sliced ham, and plates of eggs and meats, with other side dishes blurred in the background.
  • A woman pouring a dark liquor shot into a small glass at a bar or cafe with a rustic decor. There are four more shot glasses in front of her, arranged on a basket-lined tray, and wooden shelves filled with bottles, mugs, and decorative glass bottles are in the background.
  • A group of people dancing and celebrating indoors, with some wearing hats. A woman with blond hair and a woman with gray hair are placing hats on each other's heads, surrounded by other smiling guests. A musician in the background plays a clarinet.
  • A narrow street in a European village with old, weathered buildings, lush green plants, and rolling hills in the background.

Day 1: Arrival in LjublJana

Scenic view of a European city with red rooftops, a river, and a hillside castle, with mountains in the background during sunset.

Thursday, August 20, 2026

Welcome to Slovenia! Our journey begins in this charming capital, where cobbled streets, lively cafés, and the tranquil Ljubljanica River set the perfect scene for our adventure. After settling into our cozy hotel, we’ll gather for a warm welcome reception. Then, as the city lights shimmer along the riverbanks, we’ll head to a local restaurant for our first dinner together. Over delicious Slovenian cuisine and lively conversation, we’ll get to know one another and toast to the exciting days ahead.

Hotel: Hotel Mrak | Activity Level: Light | Meals: D

day 2: Architectural Treasures

A vibrant city square with colorful historic buildings, a pink church with towers, a bridge over a small waterway, and a crowd of people walking and gathering outdoors.

Friday, August 21, 2026

We’ll set out this morning to explore the heart of Ljubljana, focusing on the iconic works of Jože Plečnik, the city’s most beloved architect. His visionary designs, from the elegant Triple Bridge to the striking National and University Library, have shaped the city's character and are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage. As we stroll, we’ll pause to savor traditional Slovenian snacks, perhaps kranjska sausage or a slice of potica. The afternoon and evening are yours to wander at leisure—explore Ljubljana Castle, relax by the river, or discover the city’s vibrant café culture at your own pace.

Hotel: Hotel Mrak | Activity Level: Moderate | Meals: B, snack

day 3: Countryside Charm

A man sits at a pottery wheel, shaping a clay object with his hands. He is smiling and wearing a cream-colored hoodie. The background is a white wall covered in black and gold scribbles, balloons, and names.

Saturday, August 22, 2026

Say “Dobro jutro!” as we leave Ljubljana behind and set off for Prekmurje, a region known for its rolling hills, rich traditions, and culinary delights. Our first stop is a family-run pumpkin seed oil producer, where we’ll learn about this prized Slovenian ingredient and enjoy a tasting. Over lunch, we’ll savor classic Prekmurje dishes like bograč (hearty stew) or gibanica (layered pastry). Next, we’ll get our hands dirty at a traditional pottery workshop, shaping clay as artisans have for generations. By late afternoon, we arrive in Ptuj, Slovenia’s oldest town, for an orientation walk and free time to explore.

Hotel: Hotel Mitra | Activity Level: Light | Meals: B, L

day 4: Cultural Heritage

Aerial view of a European town with orange-tiled roofs, a prominent clock tower with a purple spire, and a castle on a hill overlooking the town, surrounded by lush green hills and farmland.

Sunday, August 23, 2026

This morning, we dive into the rich history of Ptuj, Slovenia’s oldest town, on a guided walking tour. We’ll stroll through its cobblestone streets, past medieval facades, and visit the imposing Ptuj Castle, home to fascinating historical artifacts and sweeping views of the Drava River. A highlight of our tour is the Kurent workshop, where we’ll learn about Ptuj’s dramatic carnival tradition and the mythical, fur-clad figures said to chase away winter. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. In the evening, we’ll reconvene for a wine tasting, savoring some of Slovenia’s finest Styrian varietals in a charming local cellar.

Hotel: Hotel Mitra | Activity Level: Strenuous | Meals: B, Snack

day 5: CAves & Castles

A stone castle built into a mountain with a large cave opening behind it, with multiple small windows and gray roofs.

Monday, August 24, 2026

Today, we journey into Slovenia’s mysterious underground world with a visit to the Postojna Caves, a mesmerizing network of tunnels, halls, and stalactites formed over millions of years. A mini train ride takes us deep into the cave system, where we’ll marvel at its eerie beauty and perhaps glimpse the olm, a rare cave-dwelling salamander. Next, we visit the dramatic Predjama Castle, an awe-inspiring medieval fortress built into a towering cliffside. For lunch, we indulge in a “0 Kilometre” feast in Goče, featuring hyper-local Slovenian specialties. In the late afternoon, we continue to Lipica, home of the legendary Lipizzaner horses.

Hotel: TBA | Activity Level: Strenuous | Meals: B, L

day 6: Dancing horses & Family Wine

A woman walking a white horse on a paved pathway. The woman is dressed in a gray polo shirt and riding pants, holding a black coat in her left hand. The background features a building with yellow and gray walls.

Tuesday, August 25, 2026

After breakfast, we’ll spend the morning getting to know the world-famous Lipizzaner horses on a guided tour of the stables at the historic Lipica Stud Farm, where these elegant white stallions have been bred for over 400 years. We’ll then watch a training show, witnessing their remarkable agility and grace in action. From Lipica, we journey through the scenic Karst Region, where limestone landscapes give way to charming hilltop towns. We’ll explore a picturesque medieval village before enjoying a hearty lunch and wine tasting at a family-run winery. By early evening, we arrive in Piran, where you’ll have time to explore at leisure.

Hotel: Hotel Piran | Activity Level: Moderate | Meals: B, L

day 7: Peaceful Piran

Aerial view of a coastal town with colorful buildings, a castle on a small peninsula, and a vibrant sunset sky over the sea.

Wednesday, August 26, 2026

We’ve earned ourselves a leisurely free day by the sparkling Adriatic Sea, soaking in the charm of Piran’s medieval streets and stunning coastal views. Stroll through Tartini Square, visit the Venetian House, or hike up to St. George’s Cathedral for panoramic vistas. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike to explore the salt pans of Sečovlje, or take a swim in the crystal-clear waters. You might even opt for a boat trip along the coastline. In the evening, we’ll gather and drive to a nearby village for a farm-to-table, family-style dinner, savoring fresh, local flavors in a warm, welcoming setting.

Hotel: Hotel Piran | Activity Level: Your Choice | Meals: B, D

day 8: Vineyards to Alps

Thursday, August 27, 2026

An aerial view of a small European town with red-tiled roofs, a white church with a tall clock tower, surrounding green fields, gardens, and farmland.

This morning, we wave goodbye to the Adriatic and journey inland to the lush Vipava Valley, Slovenia’s renowned wine region. In one of our favorite villages, we’ll visit a boutique winery to learn about the unique process of orange wine making, tasting this bold and ancient style firsthand. From here, we continue to the rolling vineyards of Goriška Brda, where we’ll enjoy a delightful lunch paired with local wines. In the afternoon, we visit the famous WWI museum in Kobarid, uncovering the region’s wartime history, before heading to Bovec, a mountain town where you’ll have the evening to relax.

Hotel: Hotel Soča  | Activity Level: Moderate | Meals: B, Snack

day 9: Triglav National Park

Aerial view of a turquoise river flowing through a rocky landscape, bordered by lush green trees on both sides.

Friday, August 28, 2026

Lace up your boots! We start the day with a morning hike in Triglav National Park, guided by a knowledgeable park ranger who will share insights into the rich flora and fauna of this protected natural wonder. After the hike, we embark on a scenic drive across the Alps, taking in breathtaking vistas of alpine meadows, towering peaks, and deep valleys. Along the way, we stop at the Planica Ski Jumping Centre, where we’ll learn about Slovenia’s rich ski jumping history and its world-class athletes. We then arrive at the picturesque Lake Bled, where the evening is yours to decompress by water’s edge, soaking in the fairy-tale views of Bled Castle.

Hotel: Hotel Park | Activity Level: Strenuous | Meals: B, Snack

day 10: Bled By Boat

Aerial view of an island with a church, several buildings, lush greenery, and boats on a large blue lake.

Saturday, August 29, 2026

Today, we’ll explore the lesser-known side of Lake Bled, uncovering hidden paths and learning about Slovenia’s most cherished tradition—beekeeping. We’ll visit Monika’s Ethnographic Collection, where we’ll discover the rich history of this ancient craft and its role in Slovenian culture. Afterward, we’ll board the iconic Pletna boats for a serene ride to the charming Bled Island, where we can visit the beautiful church and enjoy spectacular views of the lake. No visit to Bled is complete without a “kremšnita”—a traditional cream cake. In the evening, we’ll gather for an immersive cultural experience with the locals in a nearby village.

Hotel: Hotel Park | Activity Level: Moderate | Meals: B, D

day 11: Summits & Serenity

A cable car hanging from cables over a green mountainous area with a lake at the base.

Sunday, August 30, 2026

We begin our day with a peaceful walk through Vintgar Gorge, following wooden walkways beside rushing water beneath towering cliffs. Then we cross the scenic Pokljuka Plateau to Bohinj, where a cable car whisks us up Mount Vogel for sweeping alpine views and hearty traditional stew. In the afternoon, we glide across the glassy waters of Lake Bohinj by boat before returning to Bled for some well-earned free time. At 6:30, we gather one last time and head to the charming town of Radovljica, where we share a festive farewell dinner to celebrate the journey we’ve taken together.

Hotel: Hotel Park | Activity Level: Moderate | Meals: B, D

day 12: Detour over

A scenic view of a small island with a church and other buildings, surrounded by a lake reflecting the colorful sunset sky and mountains in the background.

Monday, August 31, 2026

Our journey concludes after breakfast, reflecting on the stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and the unique experiences we’ve shared throughout the trip. We will happily assist with transfers to nearby destinations, whether you’re heading home or continuing your travels. As we part ways, we carry with us the memories of this beautiful country, new friendships, and the warmth of Slovenian hospitality. Until we meet again—nasvidenje!

A person walking across a narrow suspension bridge over a river in a forested area with lush trees and hills in the background.
A church on a small island surrounded by a calm lake with snow-capped mountains in the background, during sunset.
Four hikers silhouetted against the sunset on a mountain trail with mountains in the background.
Tall waterfall cascading into a turquoise pool, surrounded by steep rocky cliffs and lush green vegetation.
A picnic basket containing a bottle of wine, a glass of white wine, flowers, and a cloth, set outdoors.
A castle on a hill with green grass and purple flowers, under a bright blue sky with some clouds.
BOOK NOW

$5,995 per person double occupancy

+$1,000 single supplement

10% deposit

Save $300 with EARLYPAY coupon until Dec 20

FAQs

  • Each detour includes the price of all admissions to sights seen as a group; tours by local guides, meals as listed in the trip itinerary; accommodations each night of the detour including breakfasts; all domestic flights; all transportation required for group activities from the first hotel to the last hotel of the detour including in er-country flights (transportation for optional group activities and independent travel during the detour is not included), travel consultations and advice from our staff, guides, and vendors including suggestions, tips, and directions, and all trip leader, local guide, driver, and hotel tips. Prices do not include airfare to and from the detour, nor ground transportation to/from airports.

  • Detour prices do not include international airfare or ground transportation to/from the airport.

  • Each detour includes all breakfasts and about half of your lunches and dinners as indicated in the meal guide included in each itinerary: B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner.

  • Yes! Our detours are the perfect way for children (and adults) to learn in action. We welcome and celebrate multi-generational travel. History class was never so fun!

  • Our detour begins in Ljubljana at our first hotel, where we will meet for a welcome reception around 6 pm. Our trip ends in Lake Bled, which is a 45-minute shuttle/taxi ride to Ljubljana airport.

  • While this varies by detour, we generally plan to meet between 5-6 pm at our hotel on Day 1. If you plan to arrive a day early and want to stay in our trip hotel, please make arrangements with the hotel directly, indicating that you are part of our group.

  • Please plan to fly into and out of Ljubljana.

  • Each trip page has a “book now” button that links to our online registration and payment system. There you can pay the 10% per person deposit and choose to pay in installments or to pay the full amount.

  • Deposits are refundable for 30 days from receipt. After 30 days they are nonrefundable.

  • Final payment is due 90 days prior to detour commencement but you may pau in full any time prior to this.

  • Cancellations are allowed without penalty (excepting deposit) until the final payment deadline. After the final payment deadline 100% of funds paid are nonrefundable.

  • Each trip page has a “book now” button that links to our online registration and payment system. There you can pay the 10% per person deposit and choose to pay in installments or to pay the full amount.

  • Yes, all published prices are per person, based on double occupancy, or when available, single occupancy. Please contact us for triple occupancy pricing.

  • During the registration process you will have the opportunity to request single occupancy, if it is offered. Due to the boutique nature of our hotels, we are not always able to offer single accommodations, but are happy to pair you with another single traveler.

  • Yes. You must be able to carry your own luggage up at least three flights of stairs and on uneven ground for up to a quarter mile.

  • Dressler Detours are physically demanding. To enjoy the experience, you must be in good walking shape. The most active days may average 5 miles of walking (often over uneven surfaces and including lots of climbing/steps), lots of standing while listening to your guide during group sightseeing, and possibly stair-climbing while carrying your own bag up to your hotel room. This detour includes boat travel as well. We’ve included an activity guide for each day of our itinerary: light=mostly sedentary, moderate=walking 1-3 miles on mostly even ground, strenuous=walking 3+ miles on hills/uneven ground.